6 Reasons Why I bought the Ford Transit and NOT a Mercedes Sprinter or Ram Promaster

I’ve narrowed this video down to the six biggest deciding factors that impacted my purchasing a Ford Transit Cargo Van instead of the almighty Mercedes Sprinter or even the affordable Ram Promaster.
1) Price
2) All-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
3) Fuel type
4) Maintenance costs
5) Aesthetics
6) “Bonus” items
For all these reasons and more, I decided the Ford Transit was the best foundation to build my dream campervan on. Do you think I made the right decision? Drop a comment and let me know which van you think offers the best overall features.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome
00:27 - Purchase Price
01:44 - Drivetrain Options
02:43 - Fuel Type
04:42 - Maintenance Costs
07:04 - Aesthetics
08:19 - Extras
__________________________________________
My Camera Gear 🎥: kit.co/ErikDPhoto/my-video-ge...
Music Sourced from 🎧: artlist.io/

[@eliaustin3745]

I think, this just sold me on Ford or Dodge, even though I don't care for either, and I love German tools. The maintenance issues sound like what I would imagine. 4 vehicles, and some company vehicles, have gotten me from 19 to 41 years old. I definitely prefer my Honda and Saturn to the Ford and Chevy. I definitely love German tools above all, and I've heard great things about their motor. However, I don't want to be stuck like Chuck, without an available mechanic. Thanks, for the video =)

[@AnnaBanana-mt1ty]

⚒️🔨🛠️

[@neliosamch3195]

Drove the Ford transit since 0 miles, 16 hours a day and in the first years had to replace ball joints, transmission, brakes and alignment job along with bulb lights and other minor, fueses issues. the amount of time spent on on the dealer was insanely and fuel economy wasn't good either. This video need an update to see if he is still happy with the FT.

[@loop1800mickey]

Bought a New Transit Wagon in 2015 spec it out to my needs been very reliable getting 20.2 avg . MPG been very happy with it and would buy another one.

[@user-cp1qh9jv6c]

Huh

[@sd70cal]

The Ford will do if you don't drive long distances or are shorter than 5-11. Other wise you need to make sure the wheel well hump on the floor isn't going to cramp up you left leg.

[@djsarg7451]

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. I went with 2024 RAM: front-wheel drive thus drives well full or empty, dealers everywhere, great gas mileage for a van, 9-speed trans, smallest turn radius, rear stocks don't hang low, price is great and more.

[@debradevine3949]

I appreciate knowing the maintence costs on the vehicles. When you are broke down you want it fixed asap and not too expensive. Great video. Thank you

[@ImranKhan-sd6dx]

I’ve driven all three at my hotel shuttle job, and my favourite is the Ford Transit. The Mercedes (durabus conversion) is very nice inside w a flush passenger door, but I still like the Ford better. It’s a 9 seater w space in the back for luggage, the ride is comfortable, the console area is nice w all the cup holders and areas to store stuff and I like having a seat next to me to put my personal items within arms reach. The sprinter had no seat next to me so I had to put my stuff in the overhead rack. Even my guests commented on how much they liked the Ford Transit. I enjoyed your video, cheers from Toronto.

[@marcoramirez6607]

Well well well, n1stable thanks for the time invested on the making of this video and it did help a lot because I was really going for the Sprinter but you mention a couple of issues I had my doubts about, so thanks again man, God's bless.

[@RossenBial]

I drove Mercedes Sprinter for Mammoth mountain ski area for about four years; it was my job to transport guests from the hotels belonging to the company to the four lodges and various other access points to all chair lifts. At night (my shifts were ending 11:00 PM) I would go and pick them up from their dinner tables at all the restaurants in the area. There were nights in the winter, when the temperature was as low as around 10 degrees F. This means that it could have been 4-5F(I had thermometer values in the dashboard cluster, but it has been some years since that job) - never had an issue as freezing diesel fuel. Just wanted to quickly clarify that.

[@josephmatthews1041]

Bio-diesel will freeze, regular diesel won't because it contains ethanol.

[@BobChaffey-vz3sm]

Was set on a sprinter, but now I’ll be researching the transit more. Great info. Subscribed

[@kylleayer2056]

We have a 2021 transit 350 conversion for pleasure way and the Ford driving experience, quality, reliability, etc. Etc. Cannot be beat!

[@handyhands2580]

I had both Transit and now 23 sprinter 170 crew AWD. few things I can say is the drivability of the sprinter is unbelievable especially with the electric power steering, the hight of the ride clearance for off road as stock. It's as driving a small SUV and the 360 cameras make it a dream to park and drive in tight spaces, The torque and responsiveness is excellent ( I drive in the High Sierras all the time and it's a dream. And the milage is truly excellent I am averaging 22.2miles /gallon. since new. This van is a well refined vehicle extremely quiet comfortable just, if not more than my 4 runner. I bough it with everything that is available even rear wipers and defrost. There are a lot of things the ford doesn't offer as a option.Yes it cost a pretty penny 23 transit was to cost me $78k out the door not a crew 5 seats, and not with all the options sprinter has, but Sprinter was 20k over Yes it was hard to write that check. So far no regrets.

[@nomoneynohoney6162]

Really nice video Buddy. Thanks so much

[@monicawilson896]

I really appreciate this video. This is very helpful to me. Thank you for your homework on this and your willingness to share the info.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

You are so welcome!! Thank you for taking the time to comment!

[@LiveThriveBuild]

He did a great job sharing this info

[@jared101502]

This video help me and make a lot of sense, make me change my mind. Very strong points.

[@nayefserhan4333]

Thank you taking the time explaining

[@littleoakey32]

Awesome information thanks for posting

[@johnwang9914]

Transits are the longest, Promasters are the widest, Promasters are front wheel drive, the other two are rear wheel drive. All three are former European designs used in Europe for decades before being brought to North America. Biodiesel does gel in cold weather but so does diesel, however remember that diesel are the fuel of choice for Antarctic expedition, the fuel just need to be heated for it to flow. Diesel and biodiesel are just as efficient at cold weather but are so efficient that there is little excess heat to use for heating and of course the fuel must be kept warm to flow. Remember that no. 2 heating oil is diesel just dyed to indicate that no road taxes have been charged.

[@EnderoftheGame]

Didn't expect to see Channel Fireball merch on the Van conversion video haha, thanks for the great informative video!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Mtg for life! 😉 Glad you enjoyed the content, and thank you for taking the time to comment!

[@bj231bj]

Awesome video all the way to the end!!! Thanks Erik

[@lindasteller]

I just bought a very sexy high roof extended AWD Transit in Carbonized Gray. Can't wait to have it built into my home.

[@johnfitbyfaithnet]

Thank you for sharing this important information listening from Bangs Texas

[@hydro2938]

Thank you! I am looking for a work van and you just made it so easy for me to decide and I agree with everything you said. Great video.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thanks for taking the time to comment! Glad you liked the video.

[@robovs1]

Thanks for the review. I'm just starting to explore these three van options and have always been drawn to the look and style of the Mercedes especially the 4x4 and higher 4" lift option. But even after just a few videos between the 3 options Ford is looking like a solid compromise or a better choice depending on your overall needs. Now I know why some good friends of ours also went with the Ford for their van conversion versus the Mercedes. The Ram is not even an option with no factory or aftermarket 4x4 or AWD option. Servicing and availability as you well point out is also a major concern with the Mercedes, especially if you are inclined to hit the backwoods or get far away from major service centers as you showed. Ford and Ram are homegrown American so it only makes sense service centers and technicians would be much more widely available. Ford does have a reputation and I've owned many in the course of my life and never been disappointed in the quality or reliability. Thanks again.

[@prominence2826]

Good video, well thought out 👍🏻

[@larryenglish7366]

Lots of Great info , thanks .

[@Blakely829]

Great video you explain things very well

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Glad it was helpful!

[@zenzibell]

Great video! Still in the planning stages, and I have my heart set on a Ford Transit, and you're the first person who has mentioned the battery issue, so I'll definitely make a note of that.

[@nichelles36]

Yeah, the battery is a major issue and one I don't fully understand. I never knew it would kill your battery after 30mins. What's a extra battery gives you an hour of use. Seem unacceptable.

[@tonybucca5667]

@@nichelles36 He said the hotspot activates every 30 minutes, NOT that the battery DIES in 30 minutes.

[@2EZEverything]

I just purchased a diesel 2012 Mercedes Sprinter van it was previously owned by FedEx and has 486,000 on it and it runs and drives great

[@javieralcantar1754]

Graxxxiazz for a great video, great info....just placed order for 250 mid roof. The wait is 4 to 8 months. Riverside CA

[@mladetto7453]

This is a GREAT comparison video with lots of useful information. Thanks!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you!!

[@user-ym6lc7pk1e]

The fear of gelled diesel is actually overblown. While you are absolutely correct that normal diesel gels when temperatures drop into -5/-10 territory, most gas stations transition to ‘winter diesel’ by the time temps go anywhere near that low, so you are protected from gelling. Just think about it, if gelling was such a huge issue, every time there would be a freeze up, thousands of trucks would not be able to start in the morning and people would have to abandon their cars in the middle of the highway. Obviously, this does not happen.

[@knightlyjayful]

Bio diesel is significantly worse than regular diesel and I think he was looking at it as an eco friendly alternative.

[@free2beme773]

@Calling Charleston Home People who love and follow cold weather for winter sports are sometimes in those temperatures.

[@elizabethmorrison1538]

@Calling Charleston Home people who like to live in cold weather. Ummm Alaska.

[@elizabethmorrison1538]

@Calling Charleston Home some of us don't just camp in our vans. A lot of Van lifers are people with actual jobs in facilities such as healthcare workers. A lot of videos like to show people camping in their vans and working via computer online. But for a lot of us that's not reality. People who work in hospitals clinics etc who travel. But I get what you're saying. But there are a lot of us who love to travel in the cold.

[@CenobiteBeldar]

@@knightlyjayful You need good logistics and time to do all that. Buying low-sulfur diesel is good enough because you also have the DEF system if you want to keep things clean. As far as cheap, the Sprinter can get a big fuel tank like 45 gallons. Some year sprinters can get the 47-gallon option. Cruising at 55-60 mph on a cruise setting I'm sure you'll get like 25 mpg to 30 mpg. I can't see the option of opting for a gas engine if diesel is available. Diesel are just THAT INHERENTLY EFFICIENT. I mean, so little is done compared to what you have to do to a gasoline engine to even get the minimum fuel economy of a diesel.

[@wallochdm1]

I spent over 20 years working for a very large company that owns thousands of Sprinters, from the first "Dodge" and "Freightliner" badged early versions, to the very latest models. And they are not very good, as in unreliable, expensive to maintain, with many issues relating to drivetrain reliability, low quality door hardware etc. At first, they weren't allowed outside a 25 mile radius of a certified Service Center, which should tell you something.The Promaster is a re-badged FIAT that is an approximately 20 year old design. FIAT is Italian for POS. They are known for very poor ergonomics and lots of reliability issues. Almost by default, the Transit is a better choice.

[@scottb5716]

FIAT is English for Fix It Again Tomorrow.

[@wallochdm1]

@@scottb5716 Yep. POS.

[@nicholasplesko533]

@@scottb5716 fix it again tony

[@JoDo777]

@@scottb5716 Fix It Again Tony

[@friedagrussgott9043]

wich one woud you say is better the sprinter or transit?

[@wizzarin424]

Thanks for the video, you really help with narrowing my choices down. It's really important if your on the road to be able to get parts for your van if you break down. Most of us will not have the time to sit around waiting on parts or the labor it would cost for the Mar. Diesel fuel is still too high so it's gas for me, and I also live where it gets cold - a lot. Again thanks for the video. I was also surprised on how small the monitor in the Ram was compared to the Ford.

[@woohoofromtexasharris4814]

Yes, you made the right choice. I have a 2018 and love it. My first one was a Sprinter and it always broke down. Be safe out there. Hope to see yall out on road. I drive all 48 states. 😁😁😁🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🚚

[@ellenpicardi6767]

Thank you. I am in the research phase. New to the class B game. Very helpful tips.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

You're more than welcome!

[@vintagepennies6899]

Digging the channel fireball cap.

[@ZebaKnight]

This was very useful! I'd never heard about the battery draining problem with having Ford's optional wi-fi hotspot system. That's a deal-breaker for me. If I need a cellphone/internet signal boost, I'll have a weBoost system installed. I also learned how diesel fails in below-freezing temps. I never considered the Mercedes, so the diesel issue is interesting but not important for me, but it will be vital for other folks. I've watched a ton of videos, none of which mentioned either of these things. Thanks!

[@jajaokera5012]

Thanks for your insight. Useful and appreciated

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you for the positive feedback!

[@jackbozarth1390]

Love your video. Thank you. I have driven Sprinters from the beginning. Early 2000's to now. They were garbage when they first came out. Tires were way too small. Engines were garbage, no techs at dealerships that were trained on the sprinters specifically. Turn around times were ridiculous etc. I am very convinced thanks to your video and others that I would buy the Transit. I have an Expedition and I am totally impressed by the performance of the EcoBoost V-6 Twin turbo engine. Plenty of power pulling a travel trailer up the canyons here in Utah. Just the number of service dealerships across the country are enough to make me commit to Ford. Mercedes just doesn't listen to their customers. They could own the market if they would just listen and react to the people who buy their products. Stupid way to run a business. Once again, thank you Sir.

[@maryh3438]

I was watching another You Tube channel where this lady bought a brand new Sprinter. BRAND NEW and she had an engine light which the dealer was able to at least go away but she was told it may very likely come back on. So she brings it back home and I saw one of her fog lights didn't work. Mercedes is over rated. I just ordered the 2023 Ford Transit Trail. Hoping I see it sometime in my lifetime. LOL.

[@joenovak9366]

I just ordered a 2022 Silver Transit 250 AWD 148 with medium Roof and an adventure package Plus some other goodies. In Ohio where I live Diesel is $.40 to $.80 cents a gallon more per gallon so NO reason to purchase diesel for economy since the Eco Boost engine is only a couple of miles per gallon less on MPG. It will be early June B-4 I get delivery so I am planning every detail! You as well as the other van lifers are a God send during this process! I can afford to purchase a pre-built RV but there is no fun in that! If you build it; you can trouble shoot issues much easier since you are familiar with most of the products you used in the build. Looking forward to more Vids from you!

[@Lozenhimer]

very informational...thank you!!

[@arnoldsandiego5377]

Awesome information. I changed my mind.. Im going for the Transit instead of Sprinter

[@adrianfigueroa8622]

Thank you so much for this video, am looking to buy one of these for my millwork business here in Florida. I’ll most likely end up going for the transit high roof.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

You're welcome! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@maxpower2913]

Good explanation. This is a very important one because everyone is different and has different reasons. The best way to make the choice is to actually listen to others and why they made decisions

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Couldn't agree with you more! Thanks for commenting!!

[@MoutainGuyAdventures]

Nice content. Great info. Thanks.

[@BrianJohnsonBfreejohnson]

Nice simple comparison. I didn’t know about the Ford hotspot, thanks!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Glad you enjoyed the video enough to watch till the end!

[@martintin5496]

keep up the good work bro, good luck bro

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you!!

[@user-rm9mo7rb8l]

I also have a Transit. I love it for the same reasons you do.

[@humanchildofgod3126]

I am the original owner of a 2004 FORD E-250 V8. I LOVE MY CARGO VAN! Only mistake I made was going to a Jiffy oil change shop in Santa Fe, NM and letting them convince me of having my “brake fluid” changed. It costed me $3000 to have all brake components replaced due to the WRONG FLUID being used! Anyway… FORD IS THE WAY TO GO!! I am getting ready to get (most likely) my next FORD CARGO VAN… I am 62 yrs WISE! DO NOT GO TO ANY JIFFY LUBE IN THE USA!

[@alexballew]

Helpful video!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

I'm glad you liked it!

[@sekoushumba8115]

Is very nice job appreciate information

[@AndreaMenzies]

Good information about biodisel I had no idea it could freeze.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Glad it was helpful!

[@user-qm9oo2fd2o]

Great video. Looks like we’ve spent the same time and came to the same conclusions. I thought I was listening to myself!

[@IAmSam_TheMan]

I just ordered my 2022 extended high roof for business, it got a bit pricey but well worth it. great video.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment! I'm sure you'll love your 2022 Transit when it arrives!

[@garden0fstone736]

I had to go to Vegas from Georgia in my sprinter and in the middle of Amarillo Texas the compressor blows. Parts store had compressor and belts. However one of the idler pulleys broke as well. Finding that one simple piece in the middle of nowhere was a nightmare

[@h3rmzi]

liked and subscribed for your honest opinion on your van choice... i was hesitant against the ford cause i drive it every day for work... but i guess it is reliable

[@ahmetcemiloglu7213]

Good information, I'm surprised that you didn't mention the Ecoboost engine's performance versus the competition.

[@merfishsandwich691]

Very informative video. Facing the same decisions here soon. By the way, loving the Channel Fireball hat. Wish they hadn't changed their logo, that one was iconic.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

¡Another MTG fan! 🤓

[@merfishsandwich691]

@@ErikJohnson2020 There are dozens of us, DOZENS!

[@merfishsandwich691]

@@ErikJohnson2020 There are dozens of us, DOZENS!

[@barryrathbone]

Here in Europe the RAM is badged a Peugeot or Citroen. I have a Transit but our only engine is a 2.0L diesel with 130hp and the Sprinter is only a 2.0L diesel both 4 cylinder. The V6 option to us is mind blowing!

[@davidbenatar6935]

well made video 👍

[@TomSmith-dq9gp]

Yes I would get the Ford Van as well. And that's good Information. About swapping out the Drive Train for a 4×4 from like a F250 or Fw350

[@jeffsteinmetz7188]

I did not learn anything because I came to same decision in 2020 😀. Good luck on your build.

[@jeanjeudi1111]

Basically I'm a Ford guy because I like the dealer network and Fords generally last a long time like my 300,000 mile trouble free Escape. My old Expedition was also trouble free quiet and comfy as a highway cruise o matic unit with ability to billy goat around steep stuff in Montana as well without breaking. However I bought a new Sprinter , diesel 4wd Thor tranquility after I drove a Transit, was disappointed in that it drove like a truck but with ok power though. The Mercedes just drives and steers a lot nicer. The engine ... I'll have my oil changed in the Mercedes by guys I trust .. the hell with the lack of dealers in the states. Mercedes and BMWs are known as shop queens in the US, but not really the vans. In Morocco, Mercedes run and run over the rocks for decades and keep on tickin' because they're simple for starters then just fix them as needed. Same goes for Sprinters, they are not AMG 5 litre electronic demons like the US high end sedans from hell. They're pretty basic. In Africa I drove the Sprinter which is called a Vito there, S. Africa, Swazi and in Mozambique. They drive like a million bucks, I like the 5 cyl inline better there than the sluggish USA EPA V6 though. Anyhow the USA Mercedes is not fast, drives really nice, it's heavy but does ok. The Ford is sort of rough I think, drives like a truck and I thought it would be a lot better than I found it to be. Both are good. The Ford is probably cheaper to own. The Benz is more fun to own in my opinion. Neither are perfect. The Euro or African versions are both better and faster than the USA EPA versions. I really thought the Transit would be great but I hated the seat, nowhere comfortable to rest your arms, it felt like a cheap plastic rubbermaid trash bucket of a door panel and dash, uncomfortable driving position, what the hell. By the way the ProMaster has the sweetest interior it's just that I didn't trust US Chrysler. Maybe it was the best one of the 3 who knows. Anyway flip a coin.

[@Cowdog1]

Great job on the video.

[@bernie.b]

Enjoyed the video.... I have a Transit Connect as my everyday vehicle and it has been very reliable and a very enjoyable ride. The only thing I don't like about the Ford on a conversion would be the awning placement and that it usually sticks out a bit. I've ruled out the Sprinter for 3 reasons - diesel smell both fumes and exhaust - can't handle it. Finding mechanics and the cost of parts/repair.

[@prominence2826]

My employee blew a motor ( gas v6 ) in the ford transit, and it took forever to get a new engine. We were like 287 in line for an engine, and it took months and months and months to finally receive one.

[@cynthiaarmstrong7972]

Great video, Eric. I liked that you showed the side view of your camera set up too 😊 Question: what about the interior dimensions of the Transit - narrowness, straight walls, height options, etc. vs. Sprinter (very narrow and in-sloping at top) and Promaster (wider and boxier)? How did it affect your build out? Thanks!!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

HA! Yeah I don't really see too many people giving a candid look at what it really looks like talking to a camera by yourself. And that's a very fair question about the differing dimensions, and one that several people have asked, but in my case I honestly didn't give any weight to the exact dimensions of the height or width of any of the vans. Assuming you're getting a high roof, and the extended length, they're all big. I felt like it was a better idea to prioritize the elements of the van that you couldn't adapt to, such as how hard it would be to find qualified repairs and service, or what kind of drivetrain the van had. Anyway, hope that helps!

[@artjunkeeperga5392]

I suggest visiting the Humble Road You Tube channel. Search for the “Transit? Sprinter? Promaster?” Video. He gives very detailed dimension comparisons for all three makers. There are other videos where you may also find the info as he does phenomenal build outs on all sizes and variations… i.e. long bed/high roof, etc. Good luck.

[@jasonl378]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:27 The *initial cost of Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, and Ram Promaster varies, with Transit starting at $48,000 (all-wheel drive), Promaster at $43,000 (two-wheel drive), and Sprinter at $58,000 to $63,000 (four-wheel drive).* 01:48 Ford *Transit allows aftermarket upgrade to four-wheel drive, providing more control compared to all-wheel drive.* 03:00 Mercedes *Sprinter predominantly offers diesel engines, while Promaster and Ford Transit have gasoline options. Biodiesel in Sprinter has issues in cold climates affecting fuel efficiency.* 04:51 Mercedes *Sprinter maintenance can be challenging due to specialized technicians, limited service centers, and complex engines. Ford Transit has widespread availability of mechanics and affordable parts.* 07:09 Aesthetically, *Mercedes Sprinter is considered the most appealing, Promaster is less attractive, and Ford Transit falls in between. Ford Transit's interior design is praised, close to Mercedes Sprinter's quality.* 08:30 Ford *Transit offers a built-in mobile hotspot option with remote access features, but it may drain the primary battery quickly, requiring consideration for battery upgrade.* Made with HARPA AI

[@kadiyeshire9478]

Great job boss 👍👍👍👍👍

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thanks!

[@bkad6238]

😁 I really like the way the Dodge looks. Been lusting for one. Good video. Learned some things.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

I'm glad to know you enjoyed my video!! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@zomisland03]

They have professional help for that " I'm in love with my CAR) THING. HEHE

[@drobin333]

Really enjoyed your video, lots of information. Where can I find one that has been converted? Dealerships?

[@songsparrowadventures]

Thank you for your video. I am in the process of looking for one of those vans. i live in British Columbia, Canada. If I order a new Transit now, it will take over 1 year to get here and a Promaster will take about 8 months to get here. The one thing that you didn't mention is the shape and size of the back cargo between the Transit and Promaster. The Promaster has a much more usable space especially for conversion because the walls are straight up and down and also the high roof is not so high off the ground. We see a lot more Transits around here for rentals and workers, so I am assuming that is a good sign. I am now looking at used vehicles, there are a lot more Transits for sale than Promasters, so will probably get a Transit.

[@logicarius6240]

Wider body size is another priority of making a choice for me other than transmission type, serviceability (anywhere anyplace?), cheaper maintenance, aesthetics, etc.

[@arriccacoachriccol194]

this was awesome. I was dead set on a RAM until this video. I am in the planning stage. Thank you

[@robertfrost6246]

Good job. I think I'd install a cut-off switch on that mobile data link to prevent it using the battery when I don't need it.

[@nz4983]

Real World Experience: I'm 6'4" tall and had a 2020 Winnebago Travato GL (bought it due to COVID and the wife wanted to "Glamp"), sold it after 90 days for MANY reasons. Prior to the Travato I had a bare bones stock 2015 Ford Transit 250 Mid Roof (rolling metal tent for my cot, lawn chair and dual sport motorcycle) and currently own a 2020 Ford Transit 250 High Roof (with Adventure Wagon interior kit and most of the "van life" luxuries...wife is still traveling with me). I've looked at MB High Roof vans (Storyteller Overland, Air Stream Interstate, etc.) at Van Expos. With that, the real world part of all this is - I can't stand up straight without tilting my head in a MB, my head rubbed the finish ceiling of the Travato and I have inches to spare standing straight up in the 2020 Ford Transit 250 High Roof (Winner). PLUS I love the twin turbo ecoboost engine that Ford offers.

[@whyujockinmeson]

this is the comment i look for. im 6'1 so finding something with standing room is a must. appreciate the comment

[@TheGravelTraveler]

As a Mercedes Sprinter owner I wouldn't be able to own a promaster or transit. I test drove the ford and the sprinter and the sprinter hands down is a luxury to drive, ford felt cheaply built and like it was going to fall apart. the maintenance schedule on the sprinter is every 20k miles and roughly $800-$1400 depending on where and what service there's an A and B service, which is the cost of maintenance on my Toyota 4runner over 20k miles. I have the 6 cylinder diesel with selectable 4x4 weighing in at 7,300lbs (fully loaded) and I cruise on the freeway at an average of 19mpg at 70mph in cold conditions, also it has been in zub 0 Temps with no starting or freezing issues without a block heater too ;) plus diesel engines are typically million mile engines. Just my experiences.

[@thesuppcollector]

Awesome video! For your battery issue, there are quite a few companies who make adhesive solar panels for vehicles which may be worth looking into. Someone in my area is building an overland toyota tacoma and put a black vinyl wrap on part of his hood, then adhered the solar panel to the vinyl to protect the paint. I'm sure you have plenty or roof space for something like that and they're relatively cheap!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you! And yes, I plan on mounting an array of six 100w solar panels on my roof rack, though those will be spending all of their energy refilling my house batteries and sadly won't be helping the vehicle battery.

[@thesuppcollector]

@@ErikJohnson2020 ah gotcha! If you haven't already accounted for hood space, you may be able to throw a solar panel on there and run it straight to the vehicle battery but it may not always get the most light with the way the hood is angled. Either way if the house batteries are charged you could always use them or a jump pack to jump the vehicle battery! Best of luck with the build!

[@mikelivingood7797]

@@ErikJohnson2020 How do the three compare on ground clearance?

[@vandwelling5894]

Thank you, very informative 👍

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you!

[@garyreysa4729]

Good video, but you left out one of the most important points of comparison - the suitability of the inside evevlope for conversion, and particularly the extra width of the ProMaster, which makes sleeping across the van practical. This makes for a whole new set of interior arrangements. The lower floor of the ProMaster is also a big advantage for the millions of times you will be stepping into and out of the van.

[@garyreysa4729]

@@SchmittPhysics I share your wish that Toyota would make cargo van that could be converted. The ProMaster is a Fiat Ducato cargo van with a US Pentastar drivetrain. The Ducato is the best selling van in the world, so at least some like it. I had a lot of misgivings about buying it, but I have to say that it has done really well. Its a 2014 with 120,000 miles with no major problems (so far). The ProMaster forum is a really good source of good info on it.

[@fredmyers120]

the Promaster is a FIAT metal box w/ Chrysler engine/Trans.

[@hbwaterguy3933]

Very good point about the inside envelope. The ProMaster Class B RV's are the only ones I can lay down in crossways direction. I see in the Winnebago Revel (Sprinter chassis) they put a bulge panel where the side window would be to make the bunk longer. That only works if the bunk is high above the floor. As for the front drive / flatter floor, it makes sense, though I don't see it get much notice in the various reviews.

[@grayghost61host]

I'm looking at Winnebago travato 2020/2022. What do you think going to live in for 2 years full-time When it comes to how it was driven/how miles was put on the Van maintenance records in what has been replaced

[@posteroonie]

I've seen little gas stations way out in rural Wyoming and Tennessee where the pumps are left on all night for credit card purchases. They didn't have diesel. So for van lifers that are attracted to remote areas, that's a plus for a gas engine -- fuel is more available. Pluses for diesel are a) you can tap into the fuel line to run a diesel heater rather than having to fill a separate little tank, and b) the greater fuel economy of a diesel engine makes for greater range. If I was buying a van I'd pick the Ford too. Ram upgraded the Promaster interior a bit for 2023 BTW.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

My Espar M2-B4L heater actually taps into my Transit's gasoline fuel tank and runs off of that, but it certainly was a more expensive heater than the Chinese options you can get on eBay. As for the fuel efficiency of the V6 Ecoboost gas engine on the 350 Transit vs the V6 diesel engine on the 3500 Sprinter - you can look it up on Fuelly and both seem to average 15mpg, though in my personal experience I average 16mpg with Betty, but I also drive like a grandma. ;)

[@lacuzon39000]

Try a plug in solar panel trickle charge battery system , with electronic stuff constantly on nowadays in vehicle batteries can drain in few , plus if you screw up a jumper start then you could damage some of that electronic stuff and even worse if you fry the vehicle ecm system . Nice video , I totally agree with the Mercedes van issue , I wouldn’t buy one here in the US , look at their 4x4 van used market now , peoples put them for sale everywhere . I still don’t understand why GM hasn’t step in the bigger van size yet ! I got an express 2500 , I like it cause it fit in most underground parking lot , easy to park on street with trees on the side , but I would probably buy a transit when it’s time to change.

[@bobbygraham1135]

Great video man

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you!

[@KevinSmith-bg9tt]

Ram is the best. I've owned three 1500 quads with 5.7L hemis and now a TRX, and I have a 2023 promaster 2500. All excellent.

[@jessmatthewson7775]

Hey 🤓 super glad to know that you can upgrade from 2 wheel drive to 4wd in the transit... I got a transit 2021 midroof a couple months ago and that was something i wasn't excited about... I totally agree with your thoughts about appearance vs ram (& check the nissan 🙄 ...no) thanks also for sharing the blurb about the battery's I thought something seemed alittle off when I let it sit for a couple months only putting supplies in and measuring and whatnot...went to start it and 🤯...nothing - brand new ... It did start but took a few tries... now I see what was going on. TY

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Yeah, I'd suggest keeping your Transit on a battery tender if it's gonna be parked for more than a few days while you're working on is so that the battery doesn't get drained too low by accident. After I let mine drain too low a few times it destroyed the battery and wouldn't even hold a charge. I had to replace it, but thankfully Ford switched mine out free of charge under the 3-year warranty.

[@craigclaussen4589]

Quigly who does the 4x4 conversion had a limit on miles and age on vans they will convert.

[@777wildfire777]

Only options at this stage for the 4x4 conversion are Quigly and QuadVan and they only convert up to the 2019 model year.

[@bobmirror7164]

@@ErikJohnson2020 so can you pull the fuse for the wi-fi hot spot when not in use?

[@jamesrodriguez7784]

really good tutorial which do you prefer transit 150 250 or 350

[@CLdriver1960]

I’m surprised that you didn’t mention the interior dimensions of these three vans. That’s super important in deciding the layout when you’re looking at a DYI build.

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Hi CLDriver, you're not the first to bring this up, and it's a fair question to ask. However, in my estimation, it's a bad idea to approach a van build with the perspective that you've already predetermined what your final build layout will be, and then trying to find a vehicle to fit it. I feel like a design should be flexible and adapt to your needs, not the other way around. Instead, I feel like it's much smarter evaluate the characteristics of the different vans that you can't change - like the cost, ease of access, and frequency of required maintenance, or the cost of a new transmission or engine. And then make your choice based on whichever platform you feel has the best cost to benefit for what you want. Hope that helps, and best of luck in your search!

[@CLdriver1960]

@Erik Johnson Agreed, interior dimensions shouldn’t be the only factor, but one of many. Thanks for your well wishes, I did get some good intel from your video. So far as I’m concerned, the Sprinter is not a contender for the same reasons you mentioned. I’m now at the phase of ‘test driving’ the Ford Transit and Ram Promaster.

[@noahschechtel8979]

Great video looking to buy a Transit van but I don't know whether to buy a new or used seems the new ones are not keeping up with the demand and they have very very high prices, what do you suggest, although I could wait a year to find a new one or a used one at a decent price thanks again for your video, it was very informative

[@ezwireless]

So which one did you get? Gasoline or Diesel option in your Transit? Thanks again for a great video.

[@godofrock]

Still own a 2004 sprinter i love/hate it. Love the 2.7L motor hate merc dealers love the mpg 23-24 on any type of diesel hate that its a rust bucket love the ability to do a u-turn on a 2 lane road without going off the roadway hate the limp home mode if anything is even slightly wrong love that i can repair anything on this hate merc dealers yeah hate them that much love the diesel cabin heater when you are parked. If they would make this in a corrosion proof material I would buy another.

[@stevenlageson1868]

Had a 2014 Sprinter. First year of the I4 engine. Had DEF sensor problems. After 3 times waiting for the dealer and factory to come up with computer fixes the dealer and I lemon lawed it. Mercedes paid for $4600 in U-Haul fees for the 3 times it was in the shop. 2nd sprinter had NO problems all the way up to 146000 miles when I sold it. I loved the van. Consistent 23mpg was great too.

[@brianwalsh8972]

I drive a 2006 T1N Sprinter. By far, the best truck I've ever owned. Good video, thanks.

[@bruceisz2664]

Pre emissions. Those are the real million mile sprinters. After 08 it gets more complex and expensive to maintain because of Def systems and emissions goals

[@DenyTheZeitgeist]

I’ve spent 3 years toting every tool and tester I own from home, to my car, to my work vehicle, back to my car and back home. It’s annoying, especially on days I need a ladder. I’m hunting a Transit.

[@npopovn]

Hello. I'm from Europe and I have a diesel passenger car. I only had one problem with a diesel engine when I forgot to add winter fuel. It is believed that if you fall asleep with the diesel engine running, you will not suffocate from carbon monoxide. For example, in Russia many diesel cars are used in the Arctic Circle. There are a lot of Mercedes Sprinters in Europe. The car is considered very reliable, but it costs more than its competitors and the service is also expensive. For caravans in Europe, a lot of people use the Fiat Ducato, which is the European version of the Ram Promaster. Otherwise I agree with your choice.

[@busterboyd4125]

I owned a 2016 transit 250 with 3.7 V6 for 6 years. I can say that I mostly liked the van. Mine was a mid roof and it made a great road trip vehicle in terms of available space and ease of driving. It drives very differently than the old econoline type vans. Transits drive closer to a car than those old vans which were built on truck frames. Build quality is not very good. Ford has really dropped the ball the past decade. I've heard of horror stories from people who own the turbo engine. The 3.7's not as bad. It surprisingly has plenty of power. It almost feels fast. The 6 speed auto never gave me any problems. The sync system is terrible. It just stops connecting to bluetooth for a couple of months and then one day decides to connect out of the blue. Had several recalls for the driveshaft coupler and it took them years to figure it out. The shelf above the head gets loose after a couple of years and starts rattling like crazy. Had coolant leak that sorted itself out. The edges of the roof where they welded is messy and the paint flakes off. I had to wire brush off the flaking paint and spray paint the seams to prevent rust. My biggest gripes were the lack of stopping power and the rough ride with no cargo. I believe the tires are too small for the size of vehicle and the brakes are too weak. I rear ended my first vehicle in 35 years of driving while in this van. And had many close calls even though I kept a safe distance. If the braking was better I likely would have kept the van. I purchased mine new for $34k in 2016, but recently a new Transit van was being sold for $60k+. SMH.

[@johnscritchfield5736]

Great choice!!!

[@LiveThriveBuild]

Nice job man!

[@ErikJohnson2020]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@edgardeleon7783]

I also heard that in case of a breakdown, it may take weeks before a Mercedes dealer could take your vehicle in.

[@thekeeler846]

Hey! Are you makin' fun of us smoosh faces!? Haha, thanks for sharing your thoughts... I'm of the same opinion regarding these vehicles.

[@pvs7828]

Thanks 👍

[@bobmirror7164]

What one can I tow across the country with a tow strap or tow bar? What is the shop time for changing starter motor, alternator, radiator, water pump, fuel pump? I found free pdf files of service manuals and wire prints online for Sprinter vans. Where can I get the service manuals for Ram Promaster and Ford Transit?